Meranda Re-elected As Lagos Assembly Deputy Speaker

In a seemingly unending drama and curious reversal of decisions on the floor, Mojisola Meranda has been re-elected as the deputy speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, following her resignation from the position of Speaker, which she occupied for 43 days.

Meranda, who represents Apapa Constituency I, was praised by her colleagues for her leadership and efforts in maintaining peace within the Assembly.

They also commended her for adhering to the rules of the All Progressives Congress (APC), demonstrating both strength and humility throughout her time in office.

Her resignation came after consultations with senior APC members in a bid to resolve the ongoing leadership crisis that has plagued the Assembly.

The crisis began on January 13, 2025, when Mudashiru Obasa, representing Agege Constituency I, was removed as Speaker by more than two-thirds of the 40-member House due to allegations of misconduct.

Meranda, his deputy at the time, was appointed as the new Speaker, making history as the first female to hold the position in the South-West.

However, Obasa rejected his removal, claiming it was unjust, and insisted that he remained the legitimate Speaker while still being out of the country during the vote.

He also criticized the military presence that accompanied the impeachment process.

In response, 36 lawmakers backed Meranda and affirmed her appointment as Speaker.

Tensions intensified on February 17, 2025, when a confrontation broke out between security personnel and legislative workers over Obasa’s absence from the Assembly.

Nevertheless, Meranda’s supporters passed a vote of confidence in her leadership, leading to an indefinite adjournment of the sitting.

Obasa made a dramatic return to the Assembly on February 27, 2025, accompanied by armed security guards.

This was his first appearance since being removed as Speaker, and he once again asserted his claim to the position, despite the ongoing opposition and continued loyalty from the House members to Meranda. [The Witness]